Nicola A. Irvin

Nicola A. Irvin is a Biological Control Specialist and Researcher at the University of California, Riverside, affiliated with the Hoddle Laboratory since 2001. Her work focuses on biological control of agricultural pests, particularly the glassy-winged sharpshooter and Asian citrus psyllid, using parasitoids and habitat manipulation.

• Education: PhD in Entomology (1999), Lincoln University, New Zealand
• B.S. First Class Honors in Horticultural Science (1996), Lincoln University, New Zealand

Dr. Irvin's research spans parasitoid ecology, cover crop impacts on pest dynamics, and innovative tools like biodegradable hydrogel baits for Argentine ant control. She has secured significant grants, including a Western SARE award, and contributed to IPM strategies in California vineyards and citrus orchards.

Her publications highlight studies on parasitoid competition, transgenic insect fitness costs, and habitat augmentation for natural enemies. Current collaborations with Dr. Milosavljević aim to integrate insectary plants and hydrogel baits for sustainable citrus pest management.

• Scientific Awards:
  • Western Region Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (Western SARE) grant